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Riot Street

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A new contemporary romance from Tyler King
Also by Tyler King:
The Debt

"I've fallen in love with Tyler King's writing style and absolutely can't wait for her next book. Whatever it is, I'll be buying it! If you're looking for a swoony, addictive romance with just the right balance between angst, heartbreak, and hilarity, with light-hearted banter, a sexy love story, but also some serious and darker themes, then you have to try this book!"--Aestas Book Blog on The Debt


Sometimes, getting in too deep is the only way to survive . . .
As darkly charismatic as he is unpredictable, Ethan Ash knows me better than I know myself. He's spent years unraveling the family scandal I've tried desperately to escape. I once thought that made us adversaries. Now he's the closest ally I have left.

Ethan's both the chaos around me and the deep, calm center where I feel safe. People warn me about him, tell me he's dangerous. Don't fall for him. But it's too late. Because I can't tell where my addiction ends . . . and his obsession begins.

433 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 30, 2017

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About the author

Tyler King

3 books148 followers
Tyler King was once an alternate contestant on the Emmy-winning game show The Secrets of the Cryptkeeper’s Haunted House. She would later grow up to earn an assistant director credit on the award-winning film Fetus Fetish, which isn’t what it sounds like. Other impressive claims to fame include appearing in a Madame Tussaud’s exhibit and performing as an opening act for comedian Louie Anderson.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for Natalie  ~ The Biblioholic.
2,627 reviews1,359 followers
May 14, 2017
Ever read a book's blurb and were still unprepared for the story held within its pages? That was me with RIOT STREET. I didn't expect half of what I got and I think that was what I loved most about it.

What else I loved:
📰 How naked and exposed the author allowed her characters to be. Both Avery and Ethan were devastatingly broken and at times neither one seemed able to subsist, mush less support the other.
📰 How the author tackled cult culture, not so much the day-to-day of that life, but it's aftermath. What was captured didn't appear to be contrived and had an honest if somewhat traumatizing feel to it.
📰 The way the author wove the authentic feel of journalism and I'm guessing that's from her own experience.

What didn't work for me:
📰 I was okay with the entire story being told from Avery's POV, although I felt that Ethan's perspective would have given these characters and their story more depth and more connection. However, I felt overwhelmed by the heavy usage of similes, metaphors and idioms. It was as if I couldn't go a whole passage without being bombarded. It happened during Avery's internal monologues, her narration, her conversations, and even her intimate moments with Ethan. So much so that it took away from the impact each element should have had.

At the end of the day, did I enjoy this story? Heck yeah. Avery and Ethan both found their way into my heart and I would definitely read from this author again.

Release Date: April 30, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Romance
POV: Heroine - 1st person
Steam: 2.5 out of 5
Book Type: Standalone
Profile Image for Francoise.
761 reviews33 followers
May 1, 2017
5 Soul-Stirring Stars!

The minute I started reading Riot Street, I knew I was about to embark on something truly special. Tyler King has this way of making you fall completely into her story and you feel like you are experiencing every emotion her characters are going through. This story felt real to me. The raw emotion, the depth and complexity of the characters contribute to create a soul-stirring, poignant story.



The heroes of this story, Avery Avalon and Ethan Nash are connected in a strange, tragic way. Ethan is an award-winning journalist, bestselling author and a big deal in the world of journalism. Avery is a young journalism graduate, with a traumatic past. She grew up under the totalitarian authority of a self-appointed guru, secluded from society. Ethan wrote about Avery’s family story, and created her alter ego in a work of fiction. In his book, based on interviews of her father, Ethan has exposed her family’s dark secrets. He feels he owes her and asks her to accept a newsroom job at Riot Street, a news publication.

The exploration of Ethan and Avery’s slow burning relationship was perfectly executed. Avery is trying to move on from her past, but she still has nightmares and anxiety attacks. Ethan convinces her to stop hiding and feeling ashamed of who she is. Being with him takes her anxiety away, he is tender, honest and understanding. She can identify with him, they both had a troubled and secluded childhood, betrayed by the ones they loved. There are serious issues they both must overcome, they need time to grow beyond their past and allow themselves to be loved.

Tyler King writes beautifully, her style is crisp, clever, witty, her characters are vibrant, complex and engaging. This story was compelling, with a perfect blend of swoon-worthy and heartbreaking moments, angst and funny interactions. This book was my first read by Tyler King and it is a definite keeper ! I highly recommend it. Riot Street is a standalone, told from Avery’s point of view.

ARC generously provided by the publisher, via NetGalley.
Profile Image for S.L. Scott.
Author 74 books4,594 followers
April 26, 2017
Riot Street is a unique and tenacious story told through the voice of Avery Avalon, a character reminiscent of a modern day Holden Caulfield. Tyler King’s writing style illuminates a stark world with lush description placing the reader in the scene as the characters navigate their changing world. The characters discover not only more about each other but who they are themselves. The dynamic personalities created in this book jump from the page in this refreshing and thoughtful 5 Star read.
Profile Image for AJ.
3,026 reviews1,011 followers
May 9, 2017
3.5 unexpected stars

Tyler King’s second book is an intelligent, multifaceted, twisty read with wonderfully developed, flawed, complex characters. It’s a really unique read with a lot of drama and intensity, very different from what I was expecting and I enjoyed the originality of the story, and the fact that I had no clue what was coming as it all unfolded.

Avery Avalon had a tragically unorthodox upbringing, but she has bravely and boldly risen from the ashes of her past and is pursuing her dream of becoming a journalist. Ethan Ash is an award-winning journalist who holds a special interest in Avery - he wrote a best-selling novel based on her early life, and now he is encouraging her to apply for a position at the magazine where he writes - Riot Street.

Ethan is mysterious and charismatic. He obviously has an interest in Avery and immediately puts himself in the role of mentor and protector, and their early dynamic is really entertaining.

“Quit apologizing. If you walk around like a charity case, that’s how people will treat you.”
“Then stop acting like my chaperone.”
“I’m not going to let you get absorbed and disappear. So you might try a little gratitude.”
“And a touch of humility wouldn’t kill you.”
“I tried it once. Didn’t suit me.”
No kidding.

There are secrets surrounding Ethan, and Avery’s colleagues give her warnings but she can’t help but be drawn to him, and as they spend more time together they grow closer and their relationship begins to shift.

“You’re like my own polite stalker. It’s only a little creepy.”
“There it is.” Taking a bite, he reclines and stares up at the ceiling. “She said the S-word.”
“Really. I mean, I get it. I’m fascinating. You’re obsessed with me. Just as long as you don’t let it interfere with doing our jobs.”
He laughs, shaking his head. “You’re such a brat.”
“Creeper.”

I really liked Ethan as a character. I loved his confidence and his intelligence, and his clearly protective streak. He’s complex and enigmatic, and though the romance came as a bit of surprise, he quickly won me over as a romantic hero.

“What do we tell people?”
“Nothing if you don’t want to. Or the truth: you’re mine and I’m not giving you back.”
“And what are you?”
“Infatuated.”

But while the romance is intense, it’s not the sole focus of the book because there’s a WHOLE lot of story going on. Of course, there’s Avery’s backstory and the impact that has had – and continues to have – on her life (which honestly would have been enough to carry a book on its own), but there’s also the mystery of Ethan, issues at the magazine, newsworthy political drama, Avery’s family drama, Ethan’s family drama, friend drama and dark secrets to be revealed. There’s a lot happening! And while I enjoyed the way that the story twisted and turned, it sometimes felt like there was a bit too much going on. I would rather have less storylines with a stronger focus, because I felt like I couldn’t really get my teeth stuck into one particular part of the story. I still have questions, and there are things I would have liked explored more rather than just getting glimpses. And being the mad romance reader that I am, I didn’t get as fully invested in Avery and Ethan’s love story as I wanted.

As I know from Tyler King’s previous book, her writing is great - strong, emotive and beautifully descriptive, without becoming overly poetic. But it does get a little heavy at times. It’s the kind of writing that you need to concentrate on rather than just easily slip into. But she does a great job of sucking you in and telling her story. Admittedly, it took two attempts to really get me into the story but I put that down to my reading mood and once I was in the right headspace to dive into this one, I was sucked right in.

3.5 stars.

An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Profile Image for Sarah.
1,753 reviews1,326 followers
May 1, 2017
***AVAILABLE NOW - FULL REVIEW***

4 Unexpected Crowns

This is my first book by Tyler King, and it wasn't what I expected. Filled with complex characters and an unexpected story-line, it was a beautifully written romance.

The complexity of not only the characters but also their relationship is unusual in the romance world. Originally, readers see Avery as a character who needs guidance. As a survivor of a cult, she seems to be the one who struggles in public and social situations. Readers assume that she is the one that will need the saving, but, in a turn of events, she becomes the who has immense strength. She is the one who saves, and readers get to see her come into her own and gain the confidence she needs from the very beginning. As well as being a savior and needing saved, Ethan is a damaged and complex hero. He is the main reason Avery becomes the woman she does in the novel, but he also has demons that plague him. Readers see him travel down a dangerous path, but similar to Avery he fights his way back.

What readers will ultimately love about these characters is that they support each other unconditionally. There love, although quick, seems to whether all the storms life throws at them, and their love is unalterable and authentic.

This story will take readers places they never expected. I know that I expected an office type romance between the newest reporter and the superstar writer, but it is so much more. Yes, there is an office romance, but it becomes more. It is a story about love, real love, and the hardships life asks that love to endure. It shows that it isn't always easy, and sometimes it is best to walk away. At the core, though, love is about unconditional support and acceptance.

Tyler King has penned a very tragic yet beautiful romance that will pull at readers' heartstrings. Filled with angst, romance, and redemption, it is sure to be a favorite.
-------------------
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.

For more reviews and other book news, check out Musings of the Modern Belle at www.modernbellebooks.com.
Profile Image for Bookworm Between the Sheets.
481 reviews15 followers
May 9, 2017
Riot Street led me on a very unsuspecting, thrilling ride! I loved Tyler King's writing style and also broadening my vocabulary while reading it.

Ethan wrote a book about a chapter in Avery's life, the chapter that she would like to forget.
"With everything you've been through in your life, no one would blame your for being a total mess, but you're not. Avery, you're probably one of the most well-adjusted people I've ever met. Prep school kids from Connecticut have more disorders."

This is a great page turner that will keep you invested in Avery & Ethan's roller coaster of life as they navigate the world of journalism and see who saves whom from their nightmares! I thoroughly enjoyed this smart and thoughtful contemporary romance that was a great breath of fresh air for me!
Profile Image for Naomi.
1,381 reviews58 followers
June 16, 2017
Original Review @ Naomi’s Reading Palace

Honestly, when I first began this book I was unsure if I was going to enjoy it. I pushed through the opening few chapters and found it hard to connect to the main character. But the longer I read the better this book was! I began to like and even admire Avery, knowing what she had been through and that she had become a strong and determined woman, chasing her dreams and allowing someone into her heart. It was a fantastic read, that touched on some difficult issues and I know I'll be thinking of this book for a long time to come.

Avery's background was not what I expected. It was a bit of a shock learning what she endured, but seeing the woman she had grew into made my heart swell in pride for her. She had struggled with a few issues, but had become a woman determined to create her own path in life and to become successful in a career that she was passionate about.

What she didn't expect was to fall for Ethan Ash. He knew a lot about her and he understood her unlike any other person in her life. They had a strong attraction to one another and I loved how fiercely he wanted to protect Avery. I could see over the course of the book that he had his own demons to fight, and that he was struggling with family issues. I liked seeing Avery support him, but eventually it took it's toll on her.

This is the first book that I've read by Tyler King and I can't believe the way she slowly pulled me into the world she created, and hooked me to her addictive writing style and the perfectly broken characters that she created. The characters had flaws but also had more in common than either of them realised. Their demons haunted them daily, and they each had their own ways of getting past them. Avery and Ethan seemed to be soul mates, but some issues can turn the strongest love toxic. There were a few threads that I would've liked to see tied up, but they were only minor plot issues. Riot Street turned out to be an amazing, addictive and passionate read that I couldn't help but devour! Tyler King has an incredible writing style and I know I'll be reading more of her work in the future.

Complimentary copy provided by the Publisher, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Melanie Moreland.
Author 63 books4,939 followers
March 30, 2017
Riot Street – what a gripping, raw, emotional read. Ethan and Avery’s lives are brought together by her past. She lived it—he wrote it.
When they meet in real life, their connection is so intense it becomes a force to itself. Ethan is a complex character, at times hard to like, and at times so wonderful it takes your breath away.
Avery has been through hell and back, and has a hard time accepting love. Once she does, she has to find the strength to endure, let go, and forgive.
Painful pasts, hard truths and bitter realities threaten them each step of the way. It is a story of moving forward, growing and learning to move past the pain to the person you want to become. It is a story of two people who love despite what the world has done to them.
Profile Image for Izy.
838 reviews81 followers
May 31, 2017
Rating ~3.5 – 4 stars

Avery “Echo” Avalon is newly graduated journalist, now working for Riot street. Avery’s childhood had marked in a way that even after all these years she still has to deal with anxiety attacks and nightmares. She has always felt alone and has a difficult time connecting to people (which is understandable with her past). She is still trying to find who Avery really is.

Ethan Ash is award winning journalist and a author. He is the reason why Avery decides to take the job at Riot street. While on the surface Ethan may seem like cocky and arrogant journalist who would use any means to get the story, the reality is bit more complex.

This book is told from Avery’s POV, it is about struggling with addiction, life, pain, finding peace, letting go and moving on and especially about finding yourself. The book itself is unique, the characters are very complex, the story more so but it’s so worth a read!

Avery has struggled with a lot through her life and all of it alone and the transition she goes through in this book is great. She was a great heroine, she was stronger than she ever thought she was and she goes through a lot in this book but at the end she’s stronger and more importantly she’s happy with who she is. I ended up really adoring her.

Avery and Ethan share a past which doesn’t make their interactions or their attraction to each other easier to deal with. Their connection, their attraction to each other is strong and later on the love they feel for each other is even more so. Avery and Ethan’s story isn’t exactly straight forward, Avery has walls (for good reasons) while Ethan likes to hide behind something different. Their journey to their happy ending isn’t easy, it’s filled with mistakes, up’s and downs, secrets and love.

Quibbles: I wish we could have gotten Ethan’s POV but since we didn’t a bit more about him wouldn’t have hurt, because and this my other quibble was that Avery’s story evolved a lot around Ethan (it did from the start but really) especially somewhere near 60% it was a lot more about Ethan than Avery and it was just frustrating to have Ethan being so much there yet not knowing much about him? I had very difficult time with Ethan, sometimes his behaviour was understandable other times I hated what he was making Avery go through and I had really gotten to love Avery so….I also would have liked an epilogue.

Even though I’m not a fan of one protagonist’s POV in romance books, I really loved the writing in the book, it just flowed really well and made the characters stand out more.

Overall, this book ended up making me feel a lot emotions, made me love Avery and I was happy that she got her happy ending.

ARC was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

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Profile Image for Books Laid Bare.
2,275 reviews37 followers
April 30, 2017
A seriously sharp, emotionally astute read, Riot Street brought it’s A game and in my opinion it was absolutely first class. Told from Avery Avalon’s point of view, what we get to read and understand about her past and how that has impacted her present was astonishing.
I thought the depth of emotion that the author was able to inject, meant that this was a story that could easily be described as being passionately raw.
Ethan and Avery are connected through the events of her past but they had never met in person but when that changes and they are finally face to face what lies between them finally had the opportunity to rise to the surface and there is no chance of it being tamed. This was a connection that refused to be left in the dark anymore.
While it is obvious just how heavily the past weighs on the person that Avery is now, my only question was would she almost allow it to continue to define her or would she be able to finally find the mental strength to break free once and for all?
The crunch comes when her relationship with Ethan actually kicks off and it is then that this ornery man comes into his own. I say ornery because there were times when I wasn’t sure what she saw in him, he was more complicated and cantankerous that was easy to forgive. He erred on the side of being complicated most of the time but when he wasn’t…the guy that shone through was enough to melt my heart, he was beautifully complicated.
I enjoyed the journey that the two of them took me on, they encouraged me to think carefully about the importance of putting one foot in front of the other, of leaving the past where it belongs and moving forward. Of taking a hold of your hopes and dreams and doing everything in your power to make them reality, of embracing love in whatever guise it is presented to you and allowing yourself to be loved. Your past is what you learn from, everything in life a lesson and success is what you make from what you have experienced and Ethan and Avery allow us to journey with them as they learn this.
Vividly descriptive, awash with emotional overtures and full of encouragement for both the characters and readers alike, this was a beautiful read, it was dark in some places but only when it was absolutely needed.
This is my second book by this author and I have to say that having enjoyed them both, this is an author I look forward to seeing more of in the very near future.
August 4, 2017
I received a copy via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review

Having already read The Debt by Tyler King, I was ready to embark into another one of her fictional stories. Soon I was engrossed into the less than savory world with whisperings of Avery's past and journalist willing to stop at nothing to get their stories! Tyler brought the world of journalism to life with the most sensational and juicy of stories that all center around Avery and her family with Ethan wielding the pen and you know what they say...the pen is mightier than the sword. Little did Avery know when entering the doors of Riot Street magazine not only would she be forging a new path but also finding a new love.

Avery Avalon is the epitome of vulnerability wrapped in mystery and strength. What she has went through in her childhood due to her notorious father who has been imprisoned, is appalling, fascinating, and gives me so much sympathy and admiration for her. She shows so much fortitude and will never let anyone else have the power over her that her father had wielded at every turn. Avery is a heroine that you can't help but look up to and hope for just a part of her tenacity.

Ethan Ash is a enigmatic, sexy hero that keeps readers hanging on even when he makes our heart hurt from his choices. You can't help but love him and his charismatic energy and all around yumminess! Just when I think that I know everything about this character and dislike him, he shows me another wonderful side of him and I feel myself falling deeper for him all over again!

Tyler King delivers a suspenseful, surprising, soul gripping read. Tyler has a beautiful way of pulling her readers into the story and entrancing us with her dimensional, real to life characters. I highly recommend Riot Street for a romance that keeps you on the edge of your seat and your heart pitter pattering from every twist and turn! I look forward to reading many more books created by this author.
Profile Image for Sara.
1,398 reviews166 followers
May 12, 2017
4.5 stars!!

Tyler King has just been added to my must read author list!

Riot Street is a smart, intriguing romance about falling in love, learning to let others love you and learning to love yourself.

Avery and Ethan are both quite complex. Avery’s background is scarily complicated. She went through some serious trauma that led her to make bad coping decisions. With that now in the past, she is ready to move forward and start her career as a journalist. Her path is twisted with the introduction of Ethan, an equally complicated, fellow journalist who knows more about her past than most. These two characters are infuriatingly stubborn, but compliment each so well. They have insecurities and quirks and that makes them both so real and intriguing. I rooted for these two, individually and as a couple. I wanted them to be happy, but there were times that they just weren’t good for each other. I like that Tyler King didn’t make their relationship an easy road.

This is not an easy read. This isn’t a quick, weekend read. This is a smart, witty read that will completely engross you and you will not want to miss it!

Profile Image for Treena Ross - Rockstar Book Muse.
478 reviews16 followers
May 10, 2017
4.5 Stars

This is the first book I have read from this author and I was truly blowin away!!

Ethan and Avery are intertwined in every aspect known and because of this I was intrigued from the beginning. This author knows how to write very well and engage the reader. Both these characters are fabulous and together it is a story..so interesting that you will want to keep reading until the very end hoping and praying that you get the HEA you are so desperately looking for.

Avery is an inspiring writer and Ethan is already an accomplished one...in fact he wrote about her...he knows more about her then even she does...as they come together Avery is broken but what a heroine she is. I am absolutely in love with her.

If you are looking for a truly compelling, engaging read from an author with truly talented writing skills, then this is the book for you!!

I volunteered to review an Advance Reader Copy of this book for Rockstar Book Muse
Profile Image for Rhiannon St. Clair.
387 reviews11 followers
May 11, 2017
***I received an ebook copy in exchange for an honest review***

Sometimes I read a book, and when I'm finished I just can't say enough good things about it. That's how I feel with Riot Street.

Avery is working towards a successful career in journalism, while at the same time trying to outrun her past. Ethan is an established journalist who has a fascination with the past that Avery wants to shed. When they're together, there's a very palpable chemistry between the two, but Ethan has a few skeletons in his closet that inevitably come out to haunt him, which threatens everything between him and Avery.

This might be kind of spoilerish, because I'm going to discuss some parts of the plot that aren't revealed until later on. So if you don't want that, then please feel free to pass over this portion. I appreciate authors who present substance abuse in an authentic fashion, and who don't make it seem like it's glamorous or a desirable characteristic for their leading man or woman to have. So, when it came to Ethan and his addictions, I liked how honest and real King approached the topics. Addiction is an ugly thing, it often times costs the addict his/her relationship or career, and King portrayed that perfectly with what happened between Ethan and Avery.

The plot of this book was unique, and I liked that too. Avery has such an interesting background, one that made her stand out to me from any other female lead I've read. She's been through so much and had to overcome so much, and that in turn has made her into a strong, driven individual.

There was definitely chemistry between Avery and Ethan, and King did a great job of making that palpable and noticeable early on in the story. There was a slow burn to this, it wasn't any kind of insta-love. And Avery didn't try to fix Ethan either, which I also appreciate. Everything was handled in such a delicate, realistic fashion, and that made me feel like the story itself was more real. It was easy for me to put myself in Avery's shoes and empathize with her.

This wasn't a quick read, it did take some time to get into, but I'm glad that I stuck with it, because I loved it.

Kudos to King on crafting characters that come to life and have the same kind of flaws that those of us in the real world do.

If you're looking for a unique story with romance and angst, Riot Street is the book for you.

Five stars to this book!
Profile Image for Annie.
1,716 reviews25 followers
May 8, 2017
4.5 stars- Unique characters and story

I’ve had Miss King’s debut novel on my TBR list for many months, but have yet to get to it. So when I saw the opportunity to read Riot Street as an ARC, I was eager to give her writing a try. Her unique writing style is clear from the outset. It’s detailed, contemplative, and often wanders a bit between subjects, almost as if the narrator can’t ignore the background noise. As the story is told exclusively from the heroine’s point of view and this is my first book by the author, I wasn’t sure if this is Miss King’s trademark writing style or Avery’s character. Whatever it is, it both caught me off guard and pulled me into the story.

I found both main characters to be very unique and interesting. Avery is an aspiring journalist who is trying to make a career and name for herself while desperately trying to shed the ghosts of her past. Her voice comes through perfectly. I recognized her strength and uncertainty immediately, and despite her distinct experiences, it was easy to identify with her. The more I learned about her character, the more I appreciated that her thought process and the writing reflects her journalistic side- composed, analytical, and considering other people’s motivations for their actions or reactions. While this style does make the pacing a tad slower at times and took some getting used to, it resonates with Avery’s character and brings her to life. I found Ethan equally compelling. At first glance, he’s a typical contemporary romance hero- the ambitious, successful heartthrob working at the heroine’s place of employment. However, the reader gradually sees that veneer peeled back to learn there are secrets and hidden depths to his character. The romance between these two quickly develops, and yet it feels like a slow burn. I really respect the way the author wrote this couple’s story. It was powerful and sometimes tragic, but believable. Beyond the romance, the story of Avery’s itself is incredibly interesting once it all comes together. I really hadn’t anticipated many of the subplots or conflicts and I was picking up my e-reader at every available opportunity to know what happens next.

After this author’s first release, I heard a lot of praise about her style and ability to give a real quality to the characters and romance. I definitely saw that in Riot Street and would highly recommend it to those who want something a bit different from the typical contemporary romance.

Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
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Profile Image for Resting Book Face.
415 reviews1 follower
March 2, 2019
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, so here goes:

Let me start by saying that I've never read anything by this author before, so I thought I was picking up just another typical romance novel. Nuh-uh. I knew from the first couple of pages that this would be very different, and it was. In the most magnificent way. Instead of the typical light beach read or more dark, angsty read, I found myself immersed in something not even on the normal romance spectrum. I completely lost myself in this honest, introspective love story of two very realistically flawed people. I rarely read a book in which I feel a deep connection to both main characters, but these characters are so well developed that I found myself adoring both Ethan and Avery, as individuals and as a couple--an amazing feat for an author to pull off, in my opinion. Even when I wanted to scream and call them each some unflattering names--for very different reasons--I still adored them and was rooting for their HEA. I had convinced myself that it was coming. I won't give away the ending, but I found it incredibly satisfying, much more so than I thought it would be. I am in absolute awe of this author's writing style. This is one of those rare books that will stay with me for life, I suspect.
Profile Image for Siobhan.
4,678 reviews588 followers
May 11, 2017
Riot Street was my first Tyler King book – and damn, what a read. Without a doubt, I will be keeping an eye on this author. This was such a fantastic read. It was so close to being a five star rating (in fact, a large part of me is screaming to hand out my first five star rating in many months). Honestly, it delivered so much. As soon as I started reading this one I found it was impossible to put down. I was well and truly addicted from start to end.

The first thing that grabbed me was the writing. Tyler King has a way with words – there is no way to deny that. In fact, there were so many brilliant lines that I was sending them to a friend with my own personal commentary attached. The writing is deep and emotional, yet there is an underlying humour to be found in places. Elegantly written, the writing manages to mix cynicism and true heart. It’s a talent – that’s the only way I can think to describe it. Not to mention the way it allowed us to easily enter the mind set of our main character. Within moments I felt like I was one with our leading lady, and as the story progressed her emotions became mine.

Honestly, the writing was a thing of beauty.

The story was just as amazing. It is a deeply emotional story, offering so much more than I’d anticipated. The synopsis had me believing there would be something big, but I wasn’t quite expecting all of the beauty I received throughout the story. Things developed beyond what I was expecting, more emotional impacts were thrown in than I anticipated. Every time I thought we’d reached the pinnacle point in the emotional manipulation, something more pulled my emotions all over the place. Honestly, the number of different subject matters touched within this one is amazing. I could list them all to prepare you for what is to come, to demonstrate how wonderfully complex the emotional side of this story is, but to do so would be to give you spoilers regarding what happened throughout. Just know this story is an onion – each time you unwrap a layer, a new layer appears.

Equally amazing are the characters. The characters are as complex as the story, being onions themselves. It’s a very character heavy story, with most of the drama and twists being in relation to character development. I positively loved this about the story. Each new thing that was unveiled about our characters helped me fall even more in love with them. Even when I was annoyed at characters, I found myself loving the development that was occurring. Because the development – it’s another thing that left me with a serious wow feeling. It’s done in subtle ways, but the changes that occur are drastic. Whilst I loved most of the cast from the very start, by the end of the story I was completely enamoured with every character that had popped up throughout the story. Everyone played a part; everyone worked their way into my heart. No character was left undeveloped, everyone was real, and I could easily imagine bumping into any of these people on the street.

Pretty much everything about this story pulled me in. The characters were amazing. The romance left me experiencing a wide range of emotions. The events of the story messed with my mind in the best way possible. It really was an extremely powerful read, easily one of my favourites of this year.

The only thing that stopped me from giving that full five star rating was that some of the events seemed a bit on the predictable side. Although there were many unexpected twists, although a lot was thrown into the book that left you riding a crazy rollercoaster, there were certain things that I saw coming well before they appeared. As I’m extremely hard to pull a five star rating from, little things like this can stop me from handing out said five stars. Therefore, whilst I may not have given this a full five star rating, it’s a very strong four-point-five star read that I believe will easily pull five star ratings from many other people.

Overall, this book was a truly beautiful read and I cannot wait to see what else the author brings to the table.
Profile Image for Romance Rehab.
350 reviews76 followers
June 1, 2017
Reviews originally posted on the blog: http://www.romancerehab.com/blog/riot...

Riot Street is one of those reads that really kicks the crap out of the romance stigma. There’s nothing fluffy here. Every page, every word, every bit of dialogue, has a meaning and purpose in the overall story. With that in mind, I invite all critics of the romance genre to read this book. My guess is they’ll be singing a different tune by the time they’re done.

The plot of Riot Street is complex and unique, but what really shines for me are the characters. Ethan and Avery are engaging and flawed and just so...real that as you read, you’ll start to feel like you really know them. And the slow-burn romance between Ethan and Avery is so exceptionally executed that you can’t help but root for them as a couple.

I won’t give anything away plotwise, but at the beginning of the story, it’s easy to see Avery as a character who needs guidance to overcome her past and learn how to live a productive, happy life. That’s not the case at all. Avery is a survivor who can flourish in any setting. She really only lacked confidence in her ability to remain strong in the face of setbacks and difficulties. Yes, Ethan helps her with that. But by the end of the story, Ethan needs Avery’s strength more than she needs his. I LOVED that role reversal, and it was really just another of many examples of this author and this story crushing the romance stigma.

Tyler King’s writing style is also fresh and super unique. It’s crisp and well-paced, clever and witty, emotive and descriptive without being overwrought and angsty.

Long-story-short: Riot Street is totally compelling, a perfect blend of swoony and emotional moments, witty dialogue, and beautifully complex characters. This one goes straight to the keeper shelf.

Full disclosure: We received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Amy .
2,846 reviews
May 11, 2017
"We’re both adults. Why should I deprive myself of the one person I want because we’re inconveniently employed?”

Another intriguing and complex story from author Tyler King.

Riot Street follows the story of Ethan and Avery. Connected by her past, Ethan and Avery are brought together by a job opportunity at Riot Street. Ethan has spent years trying to unravel Avery’s family scandal. He is charming and yet unpredictable. All Avery wants to do is move on from her past, but despite her best efforts, her demons keep plaguing her. She finds solace and safety in the most unlikely place…..

Overall, I really enjoyed Riot Street. The writing is smart and sucks the reader in from the very first page. The story is beautifully written and you can’t help but be drawn to Avery and want to know more about her story. I found Avery rather easy to relate to and I loved how complicated Ethan was.

I thoroughly enjoyed watching Ethan and Avery together; seeing them navigate their way through all the obstacles and hurdles that life would thrown at them. Their love was a slow burn and I think that made their relationship even that more special. They had to work to get where they are and it showed them how important it is to fight for the things and people that you love.

Riot Street is a truly unique and special romance. I didn’t see it coming, but am so very glad that I checked it out.
Profile Image for Katie.
2,260 reviews14 followers
June 2, 2017
Riot Street by Tyler King
4 stars!
Reviewed on behalf of 2 girls who love books
When I first read the blurb for this book I was really excited to read it and I wasn’t disappointed. It was a really intense read with some pretty emotional moments. The two main characters, Ethan and Avery, lives are intricately intertwined and it takes a while to understand them both. They are very complex characters but I couldn’t help but like them both. They both have problems that they need to work through and whether they can do that together or apart is a big part of this story. The author delved deep with these characters, they were both raw and emotional. There are some very sensitive issues explored in the story but they are written about well. The story is told from Avery’s POV, it may have benefited slightly to have a few chapters from Ethan’s POV especially towards the end when we see a sudden change in his behaviour. I really liked Avery – considering what she had been through I thought that she was a really strong character and what she had to do towards the end of the story whilst left me a little heartbroken was something she absolutely needed to do, not just for herself but for Ethan too. The story kept my interest throughout and I enjoyed the unique storyline. It isn’t an easy read but definitely one that I would highly recommend.
Profile Image for Madhuri Pavamani.
Author 9 books236 followers
May 17, 2017
"Charming men who know they are charming are the worst."

That's just one of the many quotes that caught my eye and stuck in my brain as I read Tyler King's RIOT STREET, a romance written the way every romance should be: smart, sexy, and complex. King's story of Ethan and Avery is a slow reveal so worth getting caught up in -- her way with language will leave you breathless. I can't decide which I enjoyed better, losing myself in the romance or being bowled over by King's word magic. Since I couldn't choose, I simply continued reading.

King's characters are developed, many-layered, and heartbreakingly beautiful in their flaws. A story about more than just love, with interesting subplots and memorable secondary characters, succumbing to the wonder of King's second novel is a divine pleasure and something you cannot help. Her exploration of the darker side of what makes her characters tick is thorough and sophisticated and will stay with you long after you've closed the cover on RIOT STREET. Don't believe me? Find out for yourself -- snag your own copy of RIOT STREET and wander through the pages themselves. Do it. Now. You can thank me later.
Profile Image for Joey.
Author 2 books12 followers
May 7, 2017
Surprisingly Good

This review might be. Little spoilery so don't read any further if you wanna go in blind......
Still here? Ok good. I have a thing about addiction and alcoholism in books. Usually because it's just done wrong. There's a lot to addiction that unless you've been there, you can't really give it justice. There's nothing glamorous or romantic about an alcoholic in their cups. I can't stand when books glorify it either. All that being said, this book nailed all of it in a great way.
I took a star off for the pretentious prose, but the writing was good, the banter was great and the care with which the author handled the alcohol and drug abusers was a beauty
Profile Image for FS Meurinne.
Author 2 books122 followers
May 5, 2017
Tyler King is a new author to me, and certainly loved the book. Riot is a very touching story, its not only about personal struggles, but how if you have someone believing in you can make so much difference. Avery has been struggling, her past and her reality makes it hard for her to move forward. Ethan is a guy that will make you want to kill him and love him at the same time. They meet and they both find themselves helping each other in more ways than they thought possible.
2,638 reviews4 followers
May 7, 2017
I couldn't put it down. While I assumed this (as most romances do) would end happliy ever after, getting there was quite the adventure. The first two thirds of the book was much more fast-paced and captivating, but the lull towards the end didn't take away from watching Ethan and Avery figure out life and each other.
Profile Image for Julie.
564 reviews19 followers
June 24, 2018
Wow this book was an unexpected pleasure. I’ve never read Tyler King and oh boy is her writing style fantastic. I’m not exactly sure what to say about it but there is some incredible talent here.

I just really highly recommend reading this one. It just hit my very illusive best of 2018 list
Profile Image for The Book Fairy Reviews.
2,275 reviews42 followers
May 10, 2017
Avery, living enduring and running from a past that has left scars so deep that she can still feel them. Surviving is how she lives her life. Love is something she doesn't know how to accept let alone keep.
Ethan, wrote about her pain, through that they have made a connection that will keep you glued to this book.
The pain, the love, the writing, will sweep you into her world, keep you hostage and then leave you bereft when you read the last words in the book. Amazing!
Profile Image for Kimberly Anne.
3,167 reviews184 followers
April 29, 2017
This is an emotionally gripping and powerfully touching story about overcoming extremely difficult personal struggles and how even one person believing in you can make all of the difference in the world and I loved this!

This is the first book I've read by this author and it definitely won't be the last! I loved the way Ethan and Avery were able to find strength in each other and how even when at their worst they shared something truly special.

I highly recommend this to anyone to read and I look forward to much more from this author in the future!

~ Kristen
Profile Image for Nerdy Dirty & Flirty.
3,985 reviews351 followers
April 30, 2017
description

Clever, funny, deep....
From the opening pages I was invested in Avery’s incredibly complicated life. When Ethan joined it to make the complex even more of a puzzle, I was all in! A man from privilege and a woman from anything but meet over a shared vocation and a love of words and truth. This is not a simple story of boy meets girl – no, this story is all about layers. Layers that include clever writing, biting humour and a humanness that had me invested in their story from the start.
“She’s complex and at times contradictory – a woman at odds with herself. That much, at least, I can relate to.”
I started reading in the late evening and was looking for something quick and lighthearted to lull me into sleep. That was SO not this book! I wanted to put the book down, honestly. I didn’t want to start caring about these characters who had a lot to say and a lot going on. After I started reading though, I couldn’t stop. Avery and Ethan, their friends and co-workers, their families – they were spellbinding! The relationships between them all – the good, the bad and the very ugly – should have been over the top drama but instead they were so real. Their struggles to do the right thing, to make the right decisions, to stay upright and sane in a world that tested you every minute.
“Then quit your bitching, love, and get to work.”
Great. Good talk.

Through it all, these two were drawn together – as professionals, as friends and, soon, lovers…
The writing is beautiful and playful. It made me think and smile at the same time. The author was able to breathe life into characters that immediately felt like old friends, that I’d known (and loved) them for a very long time… Their journey was a ride I didn’t even know I wanted to take until it was over and I wanted to start all over again. I will be rereading this story. To savour once more the twists and turns, the clever writing, the fun and heat between such flawed characters that made them so… perfect.
“The biggest changes were in the smallest details.”
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